The committee has begun its work and established a regular meeting schedule. Initial steps include hosting listening sessions with faculty, students and staff to solicit input on characteristics they are looking for in the next President of the college. We have also heard from over 150 alums. As you would imagine, expectations are high, and they should be. Input gathered from these groups is being synthesized into a working document that will be used to identify and attract prospective candidates. We will share this with you as soon as practical.

We have decided to engage a professional search firm to assist in the identification and recruiting of eligible candidates. After considering several strong firms, we have decided to interview three; all with solid track records of successfully helping colleges and universities select leadership for senior positions, including presidents. We expect to select a firm by early December 2012.

While we will do everything possible to keep the Georgetown Community informed and updated on the process, we know a level of confidentiality is required to protect candidates. The likely candidates are currently working for other institutions, and disclosure of their interest could jeopardize their positions. We understand the desire for openness and transparency in the process and will respect that within the limitation of the candidates being interviewed. We covet your prayers for the committee, the prospective candidates and the college as a whole.